Saving Money on P & K Application in a Soil Health System - Practical Cover Croppers

Jon Bakehouse of Hastings, IA is saving money on his P and K application rates to soybeans and corn by using no-till and cover crops. Jon's focus on soil health, especially nutrient-holding capacity and increasing organic matter, has let him reduce phosphorus and potassium rates on his corn and soybean crops without negative yield impacts. He explains that with elevated soil organic matter levels, his soil tests now come back as “high” and “very high” for P and K; he can apply a lower percentage of the ISU recommended replacement rates.

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